Let me just start by saying this: in the beginning of my career as an LPN, I worked night shift.
I was a single mother of two boys and felt that this was the best shift for me at that time.
Well, honey, let me tell you, it was not for me.
I was like the Grinch who stole Christmas—literally the one from the movie. 😅
The struggle was real!
However, aside from that, I had a plan for my shift.
One of the most challenging areas in our roles as nurses—not just Directors of Nursing, but nursing in general—is arriving at a facility that has no processes in place.
This is how a lot of important areas get missed.
And let's be real, the off shifts, especially nights, have the least support.
Evenings and nights are often left to fend for themselves, and that's exactly why we need to set our night shift team up for success.
Having a plan and a to-do list for the staff is crucial in producing the outcomes you want.
Here are 20 tips on what night shift duties should consist of to ensure that everything runs smoothly and compliance is maintained:
20 Tips for an Effective Night Shift:
Printing the Census Report: Start by knowing who's in your building. This gives you an overview and helps keep track of your residents.
Completing Staffing Sheets: Ensure that the next shift knows exactly what they’re walking into. No one likes a surprise when they’re already running on caffeine and sheer willpower.
Chart Checks: Reviewing charts ensures that any changes in condition or incidents are documented and that orders are followed up.
Rounding on High-Risk Residents: Regularly check on residents who are at higher risk for falls, skin breakdown, or other complications. It’s better to catch potential issues early.
Documentation on High-Risk Residents: After rounding, make sure to document any changes or concerns. This not only ensures continuity of care but also protects you legally.
Checking the Wander Guard System: Safety first! Make sure the wander guard system is functional to keep your residents safe and sound.
Code Cart Checks: Verify that the code cart is fully stocked and ready. You don’t want to be scrambling in an emergency.
Preparing for Labs and Appointments: Get everything ready for those early morning lab draws and appointments. It saves time and reduces stress when the morning rush hits.
Glucometer Checks: Calibrate and check glucometers to ensure they’re ready for use.
Medication Room and Cart Audits: Regularly audit to keep meds organized and ensure expired medications are removed.
Ordering Medications: Review and order any medications that are running low or have been used up.
Pantry and Refrigerator Temp Checks: Ensure everything is at the right temperature to prevent spoilage and maintain compliance.
Handling Call-Outs: Have a plan in place for when someone calls out. This could involve calling in backup staff or adjusting assignments.
Preparing Staffing Assignment Sheets for the Next Shift: Having this ready helps the next shift hit the ground running.
Updating Care Plans and Assessments: If there have been any changes in resident conditions, update care plans accordingly.
Admission or Discharge Paperwork: Complete any leftover paperwork from previous admissions or discharges.
Changing Out Urinals, Bedpans, etc.: Ensure that all supplies are fresh and ready for the residents.
Reviewing and Restocking Supplies: Make sure that essential supplies, like PPE and wound care materials, are fully stocked for the next day.
Environmental Rounds: Check for any maintenance issues or potential hazards, like spills or clutter, that need to be addressed to keep everyone safe, especially wheelchairs and walkers.
Take Your Lunch Break: Yes, this is crucial! Even though the night shift is quieter, it can still be stressful. Make sure you take some time to recharge—you can't pour from an empty cup!
Now, I know looking at this list might feel a bit overwhelming, but here's the secret: break it down by the hour.
When you categorize tasks and set specific times to get them done, it all starts to flow better.
This structure not only helps the night shift team stay on track but also ensures that nothing falls through the cracks.
The purpose of doing all this is to ensure compliance is maintained, even during the quiet hours.
Remember, setting your night shift up for success means your facility is set up for success.
A well-prepared night shift can make a world of difference, so give them the tools and the structure they need to shine—even in the dark of night!
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